<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/08/projected-farm-income-in-nebraska-ticks-upward-due-to-strong-prices-for-cattle/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A new farm income projection has ticked upward, largely due to higher cattle prices, an agriculture finance center reports.

Nebraska’s farm income is projected to be nearly $7.8 billion in 2023, according to the fall&nbsp;<a href="https://cap.unl.edu/publications/2023/Fall_2023_NE-farm-income-outlook_final.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;released Friday by the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at the University of Missouri.

The report, produced in conjunction with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, rose from a projection in March of $7.3 billion in farm income.

While lower crop prices were expected to drop receipts from crops by about 14% in Nebraska, rising receipts from cattle and calves are projected to be up $2.4 billion, more than offsetting that, the report said.

“Higher production expenses year after year are increasingly challenging profit margins, but for now, strong farm income prospects for 2023 show the strength of the agricultural sector in the state,” the report stated.

While drought conditions persisted in Nebraska in 2023, the report said they weren’t projected to have as big of an effect across the state as they did in 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696876268462.jpeg" alt="A combine, grain cart and semi work through a dusty soybean field north of Ashland in October of 2023. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>A combine, grain cart and semi work through a dusty soybean field north of Ashland in October of 2023. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/08/projected-farm-income-in-nebraska-ticks-upward-due-to-strong-prices-for-cattle/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A new farm income projection has ticked upward, largely due to higher cattle prices, an agriculture finance center reports.Nebraska’s farm income is projected to be nearly $7.8 billion in 2023, according to the fall&nbsp;<a href="https://cap.unl.edu/publications/2023/Fall_2023_NE-farm-income-outlook_final.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;released Friday by the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at the University of Missouri.The report, produced in conjunction with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, rose from a projection in March of $7.3 billion in farm income.While lower crop prices were expected to drop receipts from crops by about 14% in Nebraska, rising receipts from cattle and calves are projected to be up $2.4 billion, more than offsetting that, the report said.“Higher production expenses year after year are increasingly challenging profit margins, but for now, strong farm income prospects for 2023 show the strength of the agricultural sector in the state,” the report stated.While drought conditions persisted in Nebraska in 2023, the report said they weren’t projected to have as big of an effect across the state as they did in 2022.

Projected farm income in Nebraska ticks upward due to strong prices for cattle

OMAHA – The University of Nebraska continues to move forward on its “Five-Point Plan” to successfully navigate the challenging higher education landscape, System President Ted Carter told the Board of Regents on Thursday.

In remarks to the board during its meeting on the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus, Carter highlighted steps NU leaders have taken since unveiling the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/-/media/projects/unca/docs/reinvention/carter-memo-initial-response-to-may-31-charge.pdf">Five-Point Plan</a>&nbsp;to regents in June. With the plan, the university aims to address fiscal challenges brought on by inflation and muted revenues while also better prioritizing its resources for future growth. Central to the plan is a goal to gain readmission into the Association of American Universities, a coalition of the country’s most prestigious research institutions.

“This is the time for us to rethink the way we operate and invest in priorities that will move this university and our state forward,” Carter said.

“Our challenges are real, but we are going to use them as an opportunity to get better, to grow, to become more competitive, more efficient and more impactful for Nebraskans.”

Carter previously shared in an email to all faculty and staff that a modified zero-based budget effort is underway, including a review of non-faculty staffing to assure that expenses are justified. The university is also reviewing functions that remain decentralized or distributed across the system, including information technology, facilities, public relations and communications, business operations and student services. Chancellors have been asked to complete reports by Dec. 1 that will inform conversations between Carter, the vice presidents and chancellors about alignments and staffing that make the most sense for the university system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696865729431.jpeg" alt="Ted Carter" />
 <figcaption>Ted Carter</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK CommunicationsOMAHA – The University of Nebraska continues to move forward on its “Five-Point Plan” to successfully navigate the challenging higher education landscape, System President Ted Carter told the Board of Regents on Thursday.In remarks to the board during its meeting on the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus, Carter highlighted steps NU leaders have taken since unveiling the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/-/media/projects/unca/docs/reinvention/carter-memo-initial-response-to-may-31-charge.pdf">Five-Point Plan</a>&nbsp;to regents in June. With the plan, the university aims to address fiscal challenges brought on by inflation and muted revenues while also better prioritizing its resources for future growth. Central to the plan is a goal to gain readmission into the Association of American Universities, a coalition of the country’s most prestigious research institutions.“This is the time for us to rethink the way we operate and invest in priorities that will move this university and our state forward,” Carter said.“Our challenges are real, but we are going to use them as an opportunity to get better, to grow, to become more competitive, more efficient and more impactful for Nebraskans.”Recent action steps include:<ul>
 <li>Campus financial aid directors have shared feedback on NU’s Regents Scholarship program and potential total cost of attendance scholarship models, part of the university’s goal to offer more competitive scholarship packages to attract top students. Carter credited the financial aid directors for their valuable input and said the next step is to ask the University of Nebraska Foundation to study the feasibility of raising private funds for total cost of attendance scholarships.</li><li>The university is building a dashboard that will allow leadership teams to measure NU’s performance against AAU membership indicators. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Rodney Bennett and UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold are set to be briefed on the dashboard model later this month.</li><li>The university is also building a dashboard that will allow for more proactive measurement of NU’s academic programs against Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education performance standards. Carter noted that the CCPE’s minimum performance standard for bachelor’s degree programs is seven graduates per year over a five-year average. The dashboard will allow regents and university leaders to intervene in real time if programs are falling short of CCPE standards.</li><li>Reviews are underway of the university’s investments in its systemwide institutes to determine whether they can achieve a greater return in federal research funding, a key metric for AAU membership.</li>
 </ul>Carter previously shared in an email to all faculty and staff that a modified zero-based budget effort is underway, including a review of non-faculty staffing to assure that expenses are justified. The university is also reviewing functions that remain decentralized or distributed across the system, including information technology, facilities, public relations and communications, business operations and student services. Chancellors have been asked to complete reports by Dec. 1 that will inform conversations between Carter, the vice presidents and chancellors about alignments and staffing that make the most sense for the university system.

President Carter: University moving forward on plans to address fiscal challenges, enhance competitiveness

CLEVELAND – Just before kickoff at every Cleveland Browns home game, a celebrity with ties to the city is introduced to fire up the crowd.

They walk onto the field, open a guitar case and reveal an instrument representing the opposing team. Then the guitar is smashed over a giant amplifier, sending the fans into a frenzy.

“The atmosphere is incredible,” said Cassidy Stelling, “and I have no problem with my guitars being smashed whatsoever. I actually love it. It’s on TV. It’s in front of thousands of people. And even though they’re booing it because it’s the other team, I’m just like, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s something I created.’ It’s super badass and people really love the experience.”

A Kearney native and recent University of Nebraska at Kearney graduate, Stelling designs the guitars for this unique pregame activity, using digital illustration software and her artistic ability to elevate this new tradition, started in 2022 as a nod to the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame located there.

So far, her creations have been destroyed by professional wrestler and television personality The Miz, former Cleveland Cavaliers player Daniel Gibson and Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas. Her designs for six more home opponents – the 49ers, Cardinals, Steelers, Jaguars, Bears and Jets – will be unveiled throughout the regular season. The 22-year-old has complete artistic control over the project.

“What I wanted to do was make the design so killer that when it’s smashed, the reaction feels even better,” she explained. “That was really the vibe I was going for.”

As a digital design intern for the Cleveland Browns, Stelling has a hand in numerous projects that promote the NFL team and its corporate partners. She designs graphics and ads for the website, social media and app, creates content for sweepstakes and email campaigns, and provides in-game scoring updates for followers around the world.

Among her favorite designs are the “100th Battle of Ohio” graphic promoting Cleveland’s game against Cincinnati, “4 Days Until Kickoff” featuring quarterback Deshaun Watson and a post announcing the team’s new “whiteout” helmets and uniforms.

“Those were really cool to make because I know they are fully mine and the reaction that we got on social from the fans was super positive,” she said.

Stelling is at Cleveland Browns Stadium for every home game, and she also has a chance to connect with the community. She photographs the Browns High School Game of the Week every Friday, allowing her to showcase another talent.

“It’s definitely a creative position,” she said. “It’s not just strictly design and sitting in the office. It allows me to get out and be a member of the community, which has greatly added to my experience.”

For Stelling, the opportunity to work for an NFL franchise represents “the best of both worlds.”

Along with art and design, sports are another passion.

“I’ve always been very athletic, so I think that’s kind of where it all started,” she said. “I’ve always been the athlete of the family.”

Stelling participated in volleyball, basketball and track when she was younger, but focused on other activities during her time at Kearney High School, where she was a member of the Bearcat Marching Band. In the classroom, she showed an immediate flair for graphic design and quickly advanced to the upper-level Bearcat Design Project, a capstone course that gives students real-world experience working with clients.

“I remember I did the boys soccer schedule my first year,” Stelling recalled. “The coach had always been a real big stickler on designs, but he liked my designs and wanted me to continue doing projects for the team.”

Because of her experience at Kearney High, Stelling arrived at UNK with a skill level that put her ahead of most classmates.

“She had a really good launch pad,” said Sam Rapien, an associate professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/art/index.php">UNK Department of Art and Design</a>. “She came in already having pretty good taste in design and a lot of strong foundational skills from Kearney High. The other thing that really set her work apart is that she was looking at a lot of contemporary, professional design, so she was already in that world. She was kind of setting a standard for herself at that professional level.”

Both Rapien and professor Rick Schuessler, a fellow UNK art and design faculty member, immediately recognized her drive and dedication.

“She was one of the most hardworking students I’ve seen since I’ve been here,” Rapien said. “She kind of lived and breathed design. Things were never good enough for her. She was constantly trying to find ways to better her work and to hold herself to a really, really high standard. I think that allowed her to continually grow and never plateau. And that’s something that we wish for all of our students.”

“Very early on, she had her goals set and she knew what she wanted to accomplish,” Schuessler added. “Then she just constantly pushed toward that.”

Stelling was involved in the UNK Art Society, UNKlay ceramic club, Phi Eta Sigma honor society and Loper Programming and Activities Council. She also worked as a graphic designer for UNK Student Engagement and photographed Loper football.

Off campus, she connected with 24 Hour Tees co-founder and Nest:Space co-owner Chais Meyer, who helped launch her freelance photography career, and worked on murals in Lincoln and Hastings with fellow Kearney High graduate Ashton Masek.

“I was constantly designing, creating and being artistic, and I think that’s what really helped me in the long run,” said Stelling, who also does freelance design work for Fearless Ink Custom Apparel.

Stelling won multiple American Advertising Federation awards during college, and her senior exhibition was among the best Schuessler has ever seen.

“That senior show really encapsulates her whole experience – her passion, her drive, her visual abilities. It just spoke of her,” Schuessler said. “I can only think of a handful of exhibitions over the time I’ve been here that accomplished what she was able to accomplish.”

And it was about serial killers – not sports.

“I’m a true crime junkie, wholeheartedly, through and through,” Stelling said with a laugh. “I wanted to do something with true crime, but I didn’t really know what to do exactly. I didn’t want to glorify serial killers, but I wanted to make sure I honored the victims, as well, so it was a very tricky and touchy subject to work around.”

The end result was an exhibition promoting “Crime Junkie,” one of her favorite podcasts, with both artistic and psychological elements.

“By the time she left here, a lot of her work didn’t look like student work,” Rapien said. “It looked like work that would come from someone who had about five years in the business already.”

Stelling graduated from UNK in May with a bachelor’s degree in visual communication and design.

Less than a month later, she was offered the paid position with the Cleveland Browns.

“I’m at the highest level of professional football right now, as my first out-of-the-gate experience, and that’s insane,” Stelling said. “The fact that I can showcase my skills at such a high level is incredible. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

She plans to use the internship as a “test run” before deciding which direction to take her career.

“Honestly, I’m very open to whatever comes my way,” she said. “Because the more I experience, the more I grow and the more I learn. I don’t think I want to do one thing for the rest of my life. I just always want to be creating and growing and learning.”

No matter where she ends up, whether it’s professional sports or another industry, she’s destined to succeed.

“As far as I’m concerned, Cassidy is going to write her own check,” Rapien said. “She’s going to push herself and she’s going to find her way to whatever she wants to accomplish.”

“This internship is just the tip of the iceberg,” Schuessler added, “because she is not afraid to open other doors.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696865284085.jpeg" alt="Cassidy Stelling works as a digital design intern for the Cleveland Browns. She graduated from UNK in May with a bachelor’s degree in visual communication and design. (Cleveland Browns)" />
 <figcaption>Cassidy Stelling works as a digital design intern for the Cleveland Browns. She graduated from UNK in May with a bachelor’s degree in visual communication and design. (Cleveland Browns)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; By TYLER ELLYSONUNK Communications&nbsp;&nbsp;CLEVELAND – Just before kickoff at every Cleveland Browns home game, a celebrity with ties to the city is introduced to fire up the crowd.They walk onto the field, open a guitar case and reveal an instrument representing the opposing team. Then the guitar is smashed over a giant amplifier, sending the fans into a frenzy.“The atmosphere is incredible,” said Cassidy Stelling, “and I have no problem with my guitars being smashed whatsoever. I actually love it. It’s on TV. It’s in front of thousands of people. And even though they’re booing it because it’s the other team, I’m just like, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s something I created.’ It’s super badass and people really love the experience.”A Kearney native and recent University of Nebraska at Kearney graduate, Stelling designs the guitars for this unique pregame activity, using digital illustration software and her artistic ability to elevate this new tradition, started in 2022 as a nod to the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame located there.So far, her creations have been destroyed by professional wrestler and television personality The Miz, former Cleveland Cavaliers player Daniel Gibson and Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas. Her designs for six more home opponents – the 49ers, Cardinals, Steelers, Jaguars, Bears and Jets – will be unveiled throughout the regular season. The 22-year-old has complete artistic control over the project.“What I wanted to do was make the design so killer that when it’s smashed, the reaction feels even better,” she explained. “That was really the vibe I was going for.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">feel like it&#39;s safe to say <a href="https://twitter.com/joethomas73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@joethomas73</a> is the first hall of famer to smash a guitar in their gold jacket 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/uFz1tXuhsC">pic.twitter.com/uFz1tXuhsC</a>&mdash; Cleveland Browns (@Browns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Browns/status/1708532242799112399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>As a digital design intern for the Cleveland Browns, Stelling has a hand in numerous projects that promote the NFL team and its corporate partners. She designs graphics and ads for the website, social media and app, creates content for sweepstakes and email campaigns, and provides in-game scoring updates for followers around the world.Among her favorite designs are the “100th Battle of Ohio” graphic promoting Cleveland’s game against Cincinnati, “4 Days Until Kickoff” featuring quarterback Deshaun Watson and a post announcing the team’s new “whiteout” helmets and uniforms.“Those were really cool to make because I know they are fully mine and the reaction that we got on social from the fans was super positive,” she said.Stelling is at Cleveland Browns Stadium for every home game, and she also has a chance to connect with the community. She photographs the Browns High School Game of the Week every Friday, allowing her to showcase another talent.“It’s definitely a creative position,” she said. “It’s not just strictly design and sitting in the office. It allows me to get out and be a member of the community, which has greatly added to my experience.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696865499273.jpeg" alt="Cassidy Stelling poses with the guitar she designed for the Cleveland Browns’ season-opening game against Cincinnati. (Cleveland Browns)" />
 <figcaption>Cassidy Stelling poses with the guitar she designed for the Cleveland Browns’ season-opening game against Cincinnati. (Cleveland Browns)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>LAUNCH PAD</h2>For Stelling, the opportunity to work for an NFL franchise represents “the best of both worlds.”Along with art and design, sports are another passion.“I’ve always been very athletic, so I think that’s kind of where it all started,” she said. “I’ve always been the athlete of the family.”Stelling participated in volleyball, basketball and track when she was younger, but focused on other activities during her time at Kearney High School, where she was a member of the Bearcat Marching Band. In the classroom, she showed an immediate flair for graphic design and quickly advanced to the upper-level Bearcat Design Project, a capstone course that gives students real-world experience working with clients.“I remember I did the boys soccer schedule my first year,” Stelling recalled. “The coach had always been a real big stickler on designs, but he liked my designs and wanted me to continue doing projects for the team.”Because of her experience at Kearney High, Stelling arrived at UNK with a skill level that put her ahead of most classmates.“She had a really good launch pad,” said Sam Rapien, an associate professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/art/index.php">UNK Department of Art and Design</a>. “She came in already having pretty good taste in design and a lot of strong foundational skills from Kearney High. The other thing that really set her work apart is that she was looking at a lot of contemporary, professional design, so she was already in that world. She was kind of setting a standard for herself at that professional level.”Both Rapien and professor Rick Schuessler, a fellow UNK art and design faculty member, immediately recognized her drive and dedication.“She was one of the most hardworking students I’ve seen since I’ve been here,” Rapien said. “She kind of lived and breathed design. Things were never good enough for her. She was constantly trying to find ways to better her work and to hold herself to a really, really high standard. I think that allowed her to continually grow and never plateau. And that’s something that we wish for all of our students.”“Very early on, she had her goals set and she knew what she wanted to accomplish,” Schuessler added. “Then she just constantly pushed toward that.”Stelling was involved in the UNK Art Society, UNKlay ceramic club, Phi Eta Sigma honor society and Loper Programming and Activities Council. She also worked as a graphic designer for UNK Student Engagement and photographed Loper football.Off campus, she connected with 24 Hour Tees co-founder and Nest:Space co-owner Chais Meyer, who helped launch her freelance photography career, and worked on murals in Lincoln and Hastings with fellow Kearney High graduate Ashton Masek.“I was constantly designing, creating and being artistic, and I think that’s what really helped me in the long run,” said Stelling, who also does freelance design work for Fearless Ink Custom Apparel.Stelling won multiple American Advertising Federation awards during college, and her senior exhibition was among the best Schuessler has ever seen.“That senior show really encapsulates her whole experience – her passion, her drive, her visual abilities. It just spoke of her,” Schuessler said. “I can only think of a handful of exhibitions over the time I’ve been here that accomplished what she was able to accomplish.”And it was about serial killers – not sports.“I’m a true crime junkie, wholeheartedly, through and through,” Stelling said with a laugh. “I wanted to do something with true crime, but I didn’t really know what to do exactly. I didn’t want to glorify serial killers, but I wanted to make sure I honored the victims, as well, so it was a very tricky and touchy subject to work around.”The end result was an exhibition promoting “Crime Junkie,” one of her favorite podcasts, with both artistic and psychological elements.“By the time she left here, a lot of her work didn’t look like student work,” Rapien said. “It looked like work that would come from someone who had about five years in the business already.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696865550917.jpeg" alt="Cassidy Stelling shows off the guitar she designed for the Cleveland Browns’ home game against Tennessee. (Cleveland Browns)" />
 <figcaption>Cassidy Stelling shows off the guitar she designed for the Cleveland Browns’ home game against Tennessee. (Cleveland Browns)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>BRIGHT FUTURE</h2>Stelling graduated from UNK in May with a bachelor’s degree in visual communication and design.Less than a month later, she was offered the paid position with the Cleveland Browns.“I’m at the highest level of professional football right now, as my first out-of-the-gate experience, and that’s insane,” Stelling said. “The fact that I can showcase my skills at such a high level is incredible. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”She plans to use the internship as a “test run” before deciding which direction to take her career.“Honestly, I’m very open to whatever comes my way,” she said. “Because the more I experience, the more I grow and the more I learn. I don’t think I want to do one thing for the rest of my life. I just always want to be creating and growing and learning.”No matter where she ends up, whether it’s professional sports or another industry, she’s destined to succeed.“As far as I’m concerned, Cassidy is going to write her own check,” Rapien said. “She’s going to push herself and she’s going to find her way to whatever she wants to accomplish.”“This internship is just the tip of the iceberg,” Schuessler added, “because she is not afraid to open other doors.”

Smashing Success: UNK graduate Cassidy Stelling plays big part in Cleveland Browns’ pregame tradition

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Longtime environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;said Monday he'll run for president as an independent and drop his Democratic primary bid, adding a wrinkle to a 2024 race heading toward a likely rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Speaking Monday from Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, where America’s founding documents were adopted, Kennedy said there is a “rising tide of discontent” in the country and said he wants to make a “new Declaration of Independence” — from corporations, the media and the two major political parties.

“I’ve come here today to declare our independence from the tyranny of corruption which robs us of affordable lives, our belief in the future, and our respect for each other,” Kennedy said. “But to do that I must first declare my own independence. Independence from the Democratic Party and from all other political parties.”

Kennedy, a member of one of the most famous Democratic families in politics, was running&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2024-biden-trump-third-parties-e0f57b636d1365050102a8aebfb65712">a long-shot primary bid</a>&nbsp;and has better favorability ratings among Republicans than Democrats. It’s unclear whether GOP support would translate to a general election when Kennedy would also be running against Trump. Allies of both Biden and Trump have at times questioned whether Kennedy would be a spoiler against their candidate.

“The truth is, they’re both right," Kennedy said in his speech. “My intention is to spoil it for both of them."

Biden’s allies so far have dismissed Kennedy’s primary campaign as unserious. Asked for comment ahead of the announcement, a Democratic National Committee spokesman responded with an eye roll emoji.

The Republican National Committee published a fact sheet before Kennedy's speech titled “Radical DEMOCRAT RFK Jr.” that lists times he supported liberal politicians or ideas. The document also listed times he supported conspiracy theories about COVID-19 or “stolen-election claims” related to the 2000 and 2004 presidential elections that Democrats lost to President George W. Bush. Trump continues to promote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-michael-pence-electoral-college-elections-health-2d9bd47a8bd3561682ac46c6b3873a10">the disproved theory</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">his loss to Biden</a>&nbsp;was the result of a stolen election.

Hundreds of supporters gathered for Kennedy's remarks, at times chanting, “RFK, all the way!” Campaign signs teased a potential new slogan: “Declare your independence.”

Among Kennedy's fans in the crowd were several voters who said they don’t identify as Democratic or Republican and view Kennedy as a truth teller and a breath of fresh air.

“He tells it how it is,” said Julia Hill, a 23-year-old student from New Jersey. “He doesn’t sound like a politician.”

Other supporters, such as Brent Snyder, a disabled veteran from south Philadelphia, said they had voted for Trump in the past but were looking for a change.

“The last couple years I’ve been noticing the Republican Party’s been going a way I didn’t like,” Snyder said. “Not that I agree with everything that’s happening to Trump, but I think right now he has more baggage than his country needs. The division right now is just terrible. We need someone to bring both sides together to make us work.”

Four of Kennedy's 10 siblings put out a joint statement denouncing his candidacy and saying they were saddened by his announcement.

“The decision of our brother Bobby to run as a third party candidate against Joe Biden is dangerous to our country,” it read. “Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment.”

Monday's announcement comes less than a week after the progressive activist Cornel West&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cornel-west-president-independent-green-party-2024-57dd7dbc0bccc10ea866005663398823">abandoned his Green Party bid</a>&nbsp;in favor of an independent White House run. Meanwhile, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-labels-bipartisan-presidential-candidate-d230dd3a3da6d78da6707c0165aa6443">centrist group No Labels</a>&nbsp;is actively securing ballot access for a yet-to-be-named candidate.

Kennedy has spent weeks accusing the DNC of “rigging” the party’s primary against him and threatening that he might need to consider alternatives.

In campaign emails and videos, he blasted the DNC’s decision not to host debates between Biden and other candidates and railed against the committee’s plan to give South Carolina rather than Iowa or New Hampshire&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-iowa-e46b21ac9ed4ac96be6791bf7afc163d">the leadoff spot on the primary calendar</a>&nbsp;this election cycle.

“If they jam me, I’m going to look at every option,” he said in September at a New Hampshire barbecue held by Republican former Sen. Scott Brown.

Far-right and anti-vaccine influencers close to Kennedy also sent strong signals on social media suggesting he should or would leave the Democratic Party. Last month, Joseph Mercola, an influential anti-vaccine doctor who is allied with Kennedy, ran a poll on X, formerly known as Twitter, asking if Kennedy should quit the party.

While Kennedy has long&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-kennedy-election-2024-president-campaign-621c9e9641381a1b2677df9de5a09731">identified as a Democrat</a>&nbsp;and frequently invokes his late father, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, and his uncle President John F. Kennedy on the campaign trail, he has built&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-rfk-jr-built-anti-vaccine-juggernaut-amid-covid-4997be1bcf591fe8b7f1f90d16c9321e">close relationships with far-right figures</a>&nbsp;in recent years. He appeared on a channel run by the Sandy Hook conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and headlined a stop on the ReAwaken America Tour, the Christian nationalist road show put together by Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn.

Polls show far more Republicans than Democrats have a favorable opinion of Kennedy. He also has gained support from some far-right conservatives for his fringe views, including his vocal distrust of COVID-19 vaccines, which studies have shown are safe and effective against severe disease and death.

Kennedy’s anti-vaccine organization, Children’s Health Defense, currently has a lawsuit pending against a number of news organizations, among them The Associated Press, accusing them of violating antitrust laws by taking action to identify misinformation, including about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. Kennedy took leave from the group when he announced his run for president but is listed as one of its attorneys in the lawsuit.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Longtime environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;said Monday he'll run for president as an independent and drop his Democratic primary bid, adding a wrinkle to a 2024 race heading toward a likely rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A9opkWJn5aE?si=WQExXSDie9KfTFHo&amp;start=1262" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Speaking Monday from Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, where America’s founding documents were adopted, Kennedy said there is a “rising tide of discontent” in the country and said he wants to make a “new Declaration of Independence” — from corporations, the media and the two major political parties.“I’ve come here today to declare our independence from the tyranny of corruption which robs us of affordable lives, our belief in the future, and our respect for each other,” Kennedy said. “But to do that I must first declare my own independence. Independence from the Democratic Party and from all other political parties.”Kennedy, a member of one of the most famous Democratic families in politics, was running&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2024-biden-trump-third-parties-e0f57b636d1365050102a8aebfb65712">a long-shot primary bid</a>&nbsp;and has better favorability ratings among Republicans than Democrats. It’s unclear whether GOP support would translate to a general election when Kennedy would also be running against Trump. Allies of both Biden and Trump have at times questioned whether Kennedy would be a spoiler against their candidate.“The truth is, they’re both right," Kennedy said in his speech. “My intention is to spoil it for both of them."Biden’s allies so far have dismissed Kennedy’s primary campaign as unserious. Asked for comment ahead of the announcement, a Democratic National Committee spokesman responded with an eye roll emoji.The Republican National Committee published a fact sheet before Kennedy's speech titled “Radical DEMOCRAT RFK Jr.” that lists times he supported liberal politicians or ideas. The document also listed times he supported conspiracy theories about COVID-19 or “stolen-election claims” related to the 2000 and 2004 presidential elections that Democrats lost to President George W. Bush. Trump continues to promote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-michael-pence-electoral-college-elections-health-2d9bd47a8bd3561682ac46c6b3873a10">the disproved theory</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">his loss to Biden</a>&nbsp;was the result of a stolen election.Hundreds of supporters gathered for Kennedy's remarks, at times chanting, “RFK, all the way!” Campaign signs teased a potential new slogan: “Declare your independence.”Among Kennedy's fans in the crowd were several voters who said they don’t identify as Democratic or Republican and view Kennedy as a truth teller and a breath of fresh air.“He tells it how it is,” said Julia Hill, a 23-year-old student from New Jersey. “He doesn’t sound like a politician.”Other supporters, such as Brent Snyder, a disabled veteran from south Philadelphia, said they had voted for Trump in the past but were looking for a change.“The last couple years I’ve been noticing the Republican Party’s been going a way I didn’t like,” Snyder said. “Not that I agree with everything that’s happening to Trump, but I think right now he has more baggage than his country needs. The division right now is just terrible. We need someone to bring both sides together to make us work.”Four of Kennedy's 10 siblings put out a joint statement denouncing his candidacy and saying they were saddened by his announcement.“The decision of our brother Bobby to run as a third party candidate against Joe Biden is dangerous to our country,” it read. “Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment.”Monday's announcement comes less than a week after the progressive activist Cornel West&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cornel-west-president-independent-green-party-2024-57dd7dbc0bccc10ea866005663398823">abandoned his Green Party bid</a>&nbsp;in favor of an independent White House run. Meanwhile, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-labels-bipartisan-presidential-candidate-d230dd3a3da6d78da6707c0165aa6443">centrist group No Labels</a>&nbsp;is actively securing ballot access for a yet-to-be-named candidate.Kennedy has spent weeks accusing the DNC of “rigging” the party’s primary against him and threatening that he might need to consider alternatives.In campaign emails and videos, he blasted the DNC’s decision not to host debates between Biden and other candidates and railed against the committee’s plan to give South Carolina rather than Iowa or New Hampshire&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-iowa-e46b21ac9ed4ac96be6791bf7afc163d">the leadoff spot on the primary calendar</a>&nbsp;this election cycle.“If they jam me, I’m going to look at every option,” he said in September at a New Hampshire barbecue held by Republican former Sen. Scott Brown.Far-right and anti-vaccine influencers close to Kennedy also sent strong signals on social media suggesting he should or would leave the Democratic Party. Last month, Joseph Mercola, an influential anti-vaccine doctor who is allied with Kennedy, ran a poll on X, formerly known as Twitter, asking if Kennedy should quit the party.While Kennedy has long&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-kennedy-election-2024-president-campaign-621c9e9641381a1b2677df9de5a09731">identified as a Democrat</a>&nbsp;and frequently invokes his late father, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, and his uncle President John F. Kennedy on the campaign trail, he has built&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-rfk-jr-built-anti-vaccine-juggernaut-amid-covid-4997be1bcf591fe8b7f1f90d16c9321e">close relationships with far-right figures</a>&nbsp;in recent years. He appeared on a channel run by the Sandy Hook conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and headlined a stop on the ReAwaken America Tour, the Christian nationalist road show put together by Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn.Polls show far more Republicans than Democrats have a favorable opinion of Kennedy. He also has gained support from some far-right conservatives for his fringe views, including his vocal distrust of COVID-19 vaccines, which studies have shown are safe and effective against severe disease and death.Kennedy’s anti-vaccine organization, Children’s Health Defense, currently has a lawsuit pending against a number of news organizations, among them The Associated Press, accusing them of violating antitrust laws by taking action to identify misinformation, including about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. Kennedy took leave from the group when he announced his run for president but is listed as one of its attorneys in the lawsuit.

🎥RFK Jr. launches independent bid for president

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/02/banned-book-week-now-a-party-for-adults-too/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

First they came for the textbooks. Then they came for the school library books.

Now they’re coming for your public library books. That’s the latest word from the&nbsp;American Library Association, which tracks the distemper of book banning. In its report on book challenges during the first eight months of 2023, it found 49% of them were titles in public libraries, a threefold increase from the same time period in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

You remember public libraries: those big buildings your tax dollars paid for, ostensibly to promote the promise of an informed public and encourage the free exercise of intellectual thought.

Now, the self-righteous, self-appointed cultural police not only want to eliminate books from your kids’ classrooms and libraries, they want to limit what you can check out at the public library. Can telling you what to think be far behind? Nearly four decades after 1984 (year and book)?

It’s Banned Book Week, brothers and sisters. Shout it from the rooftops … especially those of public libraries.

Regular readers know the ill regard with which this space holds book banners such as Ron DeSantis and Moms for Liberty who rant and rave against a widening swath of knowledge, history and information. Others, too, including the Nebraska Legislature and the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, have played footsie with eliminating textbooks on the whim of one parent or limiting the scope of scholarly inquiry on a college campus.&nbsp;

As for content, while ignoring American history has made some inroads among our favorite censors, the usual suspects remain … well … usual. The&nbsp;American Library Association&nbsp;report said, “Most of the challenges were to books written by or about a person of color or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.”&nbsp;

Those two categories comprise most of the ruckus, but other, seemingly innocuous titles, have also come under the banner’s lash. We once again express our incredulity when challenges are made to “The Adventures of Captain Underpants,” “Little Red Riding Hood” and “The Grapes of Wrath,” John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize winner. That gives you an idea of the caliber of complainer with whom we are dealing.

Yet, even in the midst of such moral tumult, public libraries have always appeared safe, a measure apart from their scholastic counterparts, a haven for adults to choose what they read and librarians free to offer titles enough to quench a diverse thirst for knowledge.&nbsp;

Wrong. The&nbsp;Library Association&nbsp;numbers do not include recent physical threats against public libraries, including bomb threats at six suburban Chicago public libraries. They were not alone. Bomb threats and threats against staff have closed public libraries from Davis, Calif., to Iowa City to the Bronx to Hawaii to Nashville to Denver to Boston. Mirroring the bannings in schools and challenges in public libraries, stories or events about LGBTQ issues have preceded a number of the threats.

Of course if you can’t intimidate a public library until you get your way, perhaps you can simply starve it to death. That’s what happened to the Patmos Library in Ottawa County, Mich., after librarians there refused to remove books with LGBTQ themes and characters. Twice voters have put the kibosh on funding the library of 90,000 titles, which has stayed afloat through donations. Such largess will run out in a year if voters say no a third time this November.

If you’re keeping score at home, the scolds have also been busy at our schools. According to a report by free speech advocate, PEN America, public schools suffered a 33% increase in challenged titles&nbsp;during the 2022-23 school year compared to 2021-22. PEN’s report broke down last year’s increase:&nbsp;“… 3,362 book bans affecting 1,557 unique titles,&nbsp; … impacting the work of 1,480 authors, illustrators and translators.”

Some pushback is afoot. While anecdotal, evidence continues to grow that students want a voice in what kind of education they will get and what kind of school library will be there to support it. Student protests have popped up in a number of school districts including Plattsmouth, Neb.

More diverse books at school is an uphill slog. Parent groups that support bans are emboldened as the Nebraska Legislature and others continue to debate a “Parents Bill of Rights,” the inexplicable repeat — at least in Nebraska — of their current rights. At the public library, however, adults get to choose what they want to read.

So try this: If you don’t like the book, don’t check it out. And leave the rest of us — and our books — alone.

George Ayoub<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/02/banned-book-week-now-a-party-for-adults-too/">Nebraska Examiner</a>First they came for the textbooks. Then they came for the school library books.Now they’re coming for your public library books. That’s the latest word from the&nbsp;American Library Association, which tracks the distemper of book banning. In its report on book challenges during the first eight months of 2023, it found 49% of them were titles in public libraries, a threefold increase from the same time period in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;You remember public libraries: those big buildings your tax dollars paid for, ostensibly to promote the promise of an informed public and encourage the free exercise of intellectual thought.Now, the self-righteous, self-appointed cultural police not only want to eliminate books from your kids’ classrooms and libraries, they want to limit what you can check out at the public library. Can telling you what to think be far behind? Nearly four decades after 1984 (year and book)?It’s Banned Book Week, brothers and sisters. Shout it from the rooftops … especially those of public libraries.Regular readers know the ill regard with which this space holds book banners such as Ron DeSantis and Moms for Liberty who rant and rave against a widening swath of knowledge, history and information. Others, too, including the Nebraska Legislature and the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, have played footsie with eliminating textbooks on the whim of one parent or limiting the scope of scholarly inquiry on a college campus.&nbsp;As for content, while ignoring American history has made some inroads among our favorite censors, the usual suspects remain … well … usual. The&nbsp;American Library Association&nbsp;report said, “Most of the challenges were to books written by or about a person of color or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.”&nbsp;Those two categories comprise most of the ruckus, but other, seemingly innocuous titles, have also come under the banner’s lash. We once again express our incredulity when challenges are made to “The Adventures of Captain Underpants,” “Little Red Riding Hood” and “The Grapes of Wrath,” John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize winner. That gives you an idea of the caliber of complainer with whom we are dealing.Yet, even in the midst of such moral tumult, public libraries have always appeared safe, a measure apart from their scholastic counterparts, a haven for adults to choose what they read and librarians free to offer titles enough to quench a diverse thirst for knowledge.&nbsp;Wrong. The&nbsp;Library Association&nbsp;numbers do not include recent physical threats against public libraries, including bomb threats at six suburban Chicago public libraries. They were not alone. Bomb threats and threats against staff have closed public libraries from Davis, Calif., to Iowa City to the Bronx to Hawaii to Nashville to Denver to Boston. Mirroring the bannings in schools and challenges in public libraries, stories or events about LGBTQ issues have preceded a number of the threats.Of course if you can’t intimidate a public library until you get your way, perhaps you can simply starve it to death. That’s what happened to the Patmos Library in Ottawa County, Mich., after librarians there refused to remove books with LGBTQ themes and characters. Twice voters have put the kibosh on funding the library of 90,000 titles, which has stayed afloat through donations. Such largess will run out in a year if voters say no a third time this November.If you’re keeping score at home, the scolds have also been busy at our schools. According to a report by free speech advocate, PEN America, public schools suffered a 33% increase in challenged titles&nbsp;during the 2022-23 school year compared to 2021-22. PEN’s report broke down last year’s increase:&nbsp;“… 3,362 book bans affecting 1,557 unique titles,&nbsp; … impacting the work of 1,480 authors, illustrators and translators.”Some pushback is afoot. While anecdotal, evidence continues to grow that students want a voice in what kind of education they will get and what kind of school library will be there to support it. Student protests have popped up in a number of school districts including Plattsmouth, Neb.More diverse books at school is an uphill slog. Parent groups that support bans are emboldened as the Nebraska Legislature and others continue to debate a “Parents Bill of Rights,” the inexplicable repeat — at least in Nebraska — of their current rights. At the public library, however, adults get to choose what they want to read.So try this: If you don’t like the book, don’t check it out. And leave the rest of us — and our books — alone.

Banned Book Week now a party for adults, too

Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Brenda M. Wynn, 49, of Wood River, Nebraska, was sentenced in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Senior United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard to 33 months’ imprisonment to be followed by 4 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

In April 2021, Wynn sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Grand Island, Nebraska, on three separate occasions, distributing a total of 153 grams of pure methamphetamine and approximately 28 grams of a mixture of methamphetamine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This case was investigated by&nbsp;the Nebraska State Patrol.

Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Brenda M. Wynn, 49, of Wood River, Nebraska, was sentenced in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Senior United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard to 33 months’ imprisonment to be followed by 4 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.In April 2021, Wynn sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Grand Island, Nebraska, on three separate occasions, distributing a total of 153 grams of pure methamphetamine and approximately 28 grams of a mixture of methamphetamine.&nbsp;&nbsp;This case was investigated by&nbsp;the Nebraska State Patrol.

Central Nebraska Woman Sentenced for Distributing Methamphetamine in Grand Island

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Sunday he has ordered the Ford carrier strike group to sail to the Eastern Mediterranean to be ready to assist Israel after the surprise attack by Hamas that has left more than 1,000 dead and thousands wounded on both sides.

The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.

The large deployment, which also includes a host of ships and warplanes, underscores the concern that the United States has in trying to deter the conflict from growing. The Israeli government formally declared war Sunday and gave the green light for “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. was trying to verify reports that several Americans were killed and some were taken captive by Hamas.

Along with the Ford the U.S. is sending the cruiser USS Normandy, destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt and the U.S. is augmenting Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.

“The U.S. maintains ready forces globally to further reinforce this deterrence posture if required,” Austin said in a statement.

In addition, the Biden administration “will be rapidly providing the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions. The first security assistance will begin moving today and arriving in the coming days,” Austin said.

The Norfolk, Virginia-based carrier strike group( was already in the Mediterranean. Last week it was conducting naval exercises with Italy in the Ionian Sea. It’s the United States newest and most advanced aircraft carrier and this is its first full deployment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696803172229.png" alt="The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Sunday he has ordered the Ford carrier strike group to sail to the Eastern Mediterranean to be ready to assist Israel after the surprise attack by Hamas that has left more than 1,000 dead and thousands wounded on both sides.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Strengthening our joint force posture, in addition to the materiel support—including munitions—that we will rapidly provide to Israel, underscores the United States’ ironclad support for Israel.&mdash; Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1711075334827675754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.The large deployment, which also includes a host of ships and warplanes, underscores the concern that the United States has in trying to deter the conflict from growing. The Israeli government formally declared war Sunday and gave the green light for “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas.Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. was trying to verify reports that several Americans were killed and some were taken captive by Hamas.Along with the Ford the U.S. is sending the cruiser USS Normandy, destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt and the U.S. is augmenting Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.“The U.S. maintains ready forces globally to further reinforce this deterrence posture if required,” Austin said in a statement.In addition, the Biden administration “will be rapidly providing the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions. The first security assistance will begin moving today and arriving in the coming days,” Austin said.The Norfolk, Virginia-based carrier strike group( was already in the Mediterranean. Last week it was conducting naval exercises with Italy in the Ionian Sea. It’s the United States newest and most advanced aircraft carrier and this is its first full deployment.

 US sending warships, weapons to support Israel

DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks went on strike Monday after voting down a tentative five-year contract agreement that negotiators had reached with the company.

The United Auto Workers said 4,000 unionized workers walked out at 7 a.m., adding to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-workers-strike-ford-general-motors-stellantis-5f185f6615a1b3690af744641508c8e2">labor turmoil in the industry</a>&nbsp;that has ensnared all three big Detroit automakers.

With those workers joining picket lines, the total number of UAW members that are on strike now exceeds 30,000 across 22 states, the union said Monday.

Union President Shawn Fain said in a letter to Mack parent company Volvo Trucks that 73% of workers voted against the deal in results counted on Sunday.

The UAW represents Mack workers in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.

UAW Locals 171, 677, 1247, 2301, and 2420 in UAW Region 8 and Region 9 represent workers at Mack Trucks in Macungie and Middletown, Pennsylvania; Hagerstown and Baltimore, Maryland; and Jacksonville, Florida.

The deal negotiators had reached with Mack just over a week ago included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.

Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks' head of labor relations that employees working early Monday would exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.

Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits.

The company and union are still apart on work schedules, health and safety, pensions, health care, prescription drug coverage, overtime and other issues, he wrote.

The contract may have been sunk by high expectations Fain has set in bargaining with Detroit’s three automakers. In those talks, the UAW has asked for 36% raises over four years, while Ford has offered 23% and the other two firms are at 20%.

“I’m inspired to see UAW members at Mack Trucks holding out for a better deal, and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it,” Fain said in a prepared statement. “The members have the final say, and it’s their solidarity and organization that will win a fair contract at Mack.”

Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy said in a statement Sunday night that the company is “surprised and disappointed” that the union chose to strike. The union, he wrote, called the tentative agreement a record for the heavy truck industry. “We trust that other stakeholders also appreciate that our market, business and competitive set are very different from those of the passenger car makers,” the statement said.

Mack, he wrote, is part of the only heavy truck manufacturing group that assembles all of its vehicles and engines for North America in the U.S., competing against trucks built in lower-cost countries.

The company is committed to collective bargaining and is confident both sides will reach a deal that delivers competitive wages and benefits while safeguarding the company’s future, the statement said.

The UAW went on strike at selected factories run by automakers General Motors, Ford and Jeep maker Stellantis on Sept. 15. It started with one assembly plant for each company, then spread to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Two additional assembly plants at Ford and GM were added later.

DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks have voted down a tentative five-year contract agreement reached with the company and plan to strike at 7 a.m. Monday, the United Auto Workers union says.

The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.

The deal included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.

Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks’ head of labor relations that employees working early Monday will exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.

The workers are in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida.

Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits. “The union remains committed to exploring all options for reaching an agreement, but we clearly are not there yet.”

On Friday, the union decided not to expand the strikes to any more plants for the time being after GM agreed to bring its electric vehicle battery factories into the UAW’s national contract, assuring that they’ll be unionized. The union also reported progress with all three automakers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696847042061.png" alt="The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states." />
 <figcaption>The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states.</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks went on strike Monday after voting down a tentative five-year contract agreement that negotiators had reached with the company.The United Auto Workers said 4,000 unionized workers walked out at 7 a.m., adding to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-workers-strike-ford-general-motors-stellantis-5f185f6615a1b3690af744641508c8e2">labor turmoil in the industry</a>&nbsp;that has ensnared all three big Detroit automakers.With those workers joining picket lines, the total number of UAW members that are on strike now exceeds 30,000 across 22 states, the union said Monday.Union President Shawn Fain said in a letter to Mack parent company Volvo Trucks that 73% of workers voted against the deal in results counted on Sunday.The UAW represents Mack workers in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.UAW Locals 171, 677, 1247, 2301, and 2420 in UAW Region 8 and Region 9 represent workers at Mack Trucks in Macungie and Middletown, Pennsylvania; Hagerstown and Baltimore, Maryland; and Jacksonville, Florida.The deal negotiators had reached with Mack just over a week ago included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks' head of labor relations that employees working early Monday would exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits.The company and union are still apart on work schedules, health and safety, pensions, health care, prescription drug coverage, overtime and other issues, he wrote.The contract may have been sunk by high expectations Fain has set in bargaining with Detroit’s three automakers. In those talks, the UAW has asked for 36% raises over four years, while Ford has offered 23% and the other two firms are at 20%.“I’m inspired to see UAW members at Mack Trucks holding out for a better deal, and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it,” Fain said in a prepared statement. “The members have the final say, and it’s their solidarity and organization that will win a fair contract at Mack.”Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy said in a statement Sunday night that the company is “surprised and disappointed” that the union chose to strike. The union, he wrote, called the tentative agreement a record for the heavy truck industry. “We trust that other stakeholders also appreciate that our market, business and competitive set are very different from those of the passenger car makers,” the statement said.Mack, he wrote, is part of the only heavy truck manufacturing group that assembles all of its vehicles and engines for North America in the U.S., competing against trucks built in lower-cost countries.The company is committed to collective bargaining and is confident both sides will reach a deal that delivers competitive wages and benefits while safeguarding the company’s future, the statement said.The UAW went on strike at selected factories run by automakers General Motors, Ford and Jeep maker Stellantis on Sept. 15. It started with one assembly plant for each company, then spread to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Two additional assembly plants at Ford and GM were added later.---------------DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks have voted down a tentative five-year contract agreement reached with the company and plan to strike at 7 a.m. Monday, the United Auto Workers union says.Union President Shawn Fain said in a letter to Mack parent company Volvo Trucks that 73% of workers voted against the deal in results counted on Sunday.The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: 4,000 UAW members at Mack Trucks have voted to REJECT a tentative agreement, and will STRIKE at 7 am on Monday. &quot;I&#39;m inspired to see UAW members at Mack holding out for a better deal, and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it,&quot; said UAW President Shawn Fain. <a href="https://t.co/YFYfqikSMh">pic.twitter.com/YFYfqikSMh</a>&mdash; UAW (@UAW) <a href="https://twitter.com/UAW/status/1711186526153900080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The deal included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks’ head of labor relations that employees working early Monday will exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.The workers are in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida.Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits. “The union remains committed to exploring all options for reaching an agreement, but we clearly are not there yet.”The company and union are still apart on work schedules, health and safety, pensions, health care, prescription drug coverage, overtime and other issues, he wrote.The contract may have been sunk by high expectations Fain has set in bargaining with Detroit’s three automakers. In those talks, the UAW has asked for 36% raises over four years, while Ford has offered 23% and the other two firms are at 20%.Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy said in a statement Sunday night that the company is “surprised and disappointed” that the union chose to strike. The union, he wrote, called the tentative agreement a record for the heavy truck industry. “We trust that other stakeholders also appreciate that our market, business and competitive set are very different from those of the passenger car makers,” the statement said.Mack, he wrote, is part of the only heavy truck manufacturing group that assembles all of its vehicles and engines for North America in the U.S., competing against trucks built in lower-cost countries.The company is committed to collective bargaining and is confident both sides will reach a deal that delivers competitive wages and benefits while safeguarding the company’s future, the statement said.The UAW went on strike at selected factories run by automakers General Motors, Ford and Jeep maker Stellantis on Sept. 15. It started with one assembly plant for each company, then spread to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Two additional assembly plants at Ford and GM were added later.On Friday, the union decided not to expand the strikes to any more plants for the time being after GM agreed to bring its electric vehicle battery factories into the UAW’s national contract, assuring that they’ll be unionized. The union also reported progress with all three automakers.

Workers at Mack Trucks go on strike after rejecting contract deal

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/inmate-dead-following-fires-set-by-prisoners-at-tecumseh-state-prison/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A 27-year-old inmate at Nebraska’s state prison in Tecumseh is dead following what officials said were fires intentionally set by prisoners Thursday evening.

Jesse Spencer, who was serving a 12- to 20-year sentence for various assault and theft convictions, was found unresponsive inside his cell after prison staff responded to the fires.

A press release from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said Spencer was one of five inmates who intentionally set fires inside their cells at about 6 p.m. Thursday.

When staff responded, the inmates initially refused staff directives to come out of their cells.

Eventually, the agency said, three inmates complied, but two others, including Spencer, continued to refuse.

When staff members went in to get Spencer, he was found unresponsive in his cell. Efforts to revive him were not successful.

Staff members extinguished the fires before local fire crews arrived at the prison just north of Tecumseh.

No other housing units at the prison were impacted. Two staff members were examined at the Tecumseh hospital following the incident.

The death and fires follow an incident Sept. 30 in which an inmate allegedly assaulted multiple staff members. Two staffers were seriously injured and required medical treatment.

The fires were set in another gallery of the same housing unit where the assaults occurred but involved different inmates, a corrections spokeswoman said.

The Tecumseh prison, a 960-bed facility for medium- and maximum-security inmates, has been the site of two deadly incidents in recent years.

In 2017, two inmates were killed when inmates went on a rampage in one housing unit after refusing staff directives.

In 2015, a riot broke out when a staff member unsuccessfully tried to break up a gathering of inmates in the exercise yard.&nbsp; Two inmates were killed, four were injured, and a housing unit was burned and ransacked during a disturbance that took several hours to bring under control.

Nebraska has one of the most overcrowded prison systems in the country, housing about 1,600 more inmates than the system was designed to house.

But at Tecumseh, overcrowding has not been the issue. A lack of staff has plagued the rural institution since it opened in 2001.

About 80 corrections officers are bused in daily from Omaha to ensure that the prison posts are filled. A<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/staffing-emergency-soon-to-end-at-nebraska-state-penitentiary/">&nbsp;“staffing emergency”</a>&nbsp;has been in effect at Tecumseh for several months, which resulted in cutbacks on inmate activities and visits from relatives and friends.

Spencer’ began his prison sentence in September 2014. He was serving just over 12 years to 20 years on charges out of Gage, Johnson and Lancaster Counties that included second-degree assault, assault by a confined person, theft, terroristic threats and criminal mischief.

The agency said a modified lockdown at Tecumseh is in effect after the fires Thursday. State law requires a grand jury investigation any time someone dies in police, jail or prison custody.

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/inmate-dead-following-fires-set-by-prisoners-at-tecumseh-state-prison/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A 27-year-old inmate at Nebraska’s state prison in Tecumseh is dead following what officials said were fires intentionally set by prisoners Thursday evening.Jesse Spencer, who was serving a 12- to 20-year sentence for various assault and theft convictions, was found unresponsive inside his cell after prison staff responded to the fires.A press release from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said Spencer was one of five inmates who intentionally set fires inside their cells at about 6 p.m. Thursday.<h2>Inmates refused orders</h2>When staff responded, the inmates initially refused staff directives to come out of their cells.Eventually, the agency said, three inmates complied, but two others, including Spencer, continued to refuse.When staff members went in to get Spencer, he was found unresponsive in his cell. Efforts to revive him were not successful.Staff members extinguished the fires before local fire crews arrived at the prison just north of Tecumseh.No other housing units at the prison were impacted. Two staff members were examined at the Tecumseh hospital following the incident.<h2>Assaults in same housing unit</h2>The death and fires follow an incident Sept. 30 in which an inmate allegedly assaulted multiple staff members. Two staffers were seriously injured and required medical treatment.The fires were set in another gallery of the same housing unit where the assaults occurred but involved different inmates, a corrections spokeswoman said.The Tecumseh prison, a 960-bed facility for medium- and maximum-security inmates, has been the site of two deadly incidents in recent years.In 2017, two inmates were killed when inmates went on a rampage in one housing unit after refusing staff directives.In 2015, a riot broke out when a staff member unsuccessfully tried to break up a gathering of inmates in the exercise yard.&nbsp; Two inmates were killed, four were injured, and a housing unit was burned and ransacked during a disturbance that took several hours to bring under control.<h2>Staffing problems at Tecumseh</h2>Nebraska has one of the most overcrowded prison systems in the country, housing about 1,600 more inmates than the system was designed to house.But at Tecumseh, overcrowding has not been the issue. A lack of staff has plagued the rural institution since it opened in 2001.About 80 corrections officers are bused in daily from Omaha to ensure that the prison posts are filled. A<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/staffing-emergency-soon-to-end-at-nebraska-state-penitentiary/">&nbsp;“staffing emergency”</a>&nbsp;has been in effect at Tecumseh for several months, which resulted in cutbacks on inmate activities and visits from relatives and friends.Spencer’ began his prison sentence in September 2014. He was serving just over 12 years to 20 years on charges out of Gage, Johnson and Lancaster Counties that included second-degree assault, assault by a confined person, theft, terroristic threats and criminal mischief.The agency said a modified lockdown at Tecumseh is in effect after the fires Thursday. State law requires a grand jury investigation any time someone dies in police, jail or prison custody.

Inmate dead following fires set by inmates at Tecumseh state prison

This week, the House was set to continue its work on the twelve annual appropriations bills to ensure the government is responsibly funded. Unfortunately, our legislative work to cut wasteful spending was disrupted when a small handful of Republicans voted with Democrats to remove the Speaker of the House. I voted against vacating the chair because it sets a disruptive precedent and because the House should be focused on delivering results for the American people. 

House Republicans already have a record of success in the 118th&nbsp;Congress, and I believe we should be building on that record as a team united, not fighting amongst ourselves. It’s unfortunate we are in this position, but we must come together, elect a new speaker, and get back to doing the People’s business. I thank former Speaker Kevin McCarthy for his service and will continue speaking with my colleagues and Nebraskans as I consider which of my House Republican colleagues would most effectively lead the House as Speaker.

Over the last 275 days, our Republican Majority has delivered meaningful wins for all Americans. We started with reopening the House to the American people, ending proxy voting, and forcing the Biden administration to end the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. House Republicans have worked hard to return to normalcy and get our country back on track since retaking the majority. With millions of families and small businesses depending on us, we cannot let off the gas.

To push back on the Biden administration’s anti-growth agenda, we passed H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act which, if enacted, would unleash domestic energy production and restore American energy dominance.

House Republicans also passed H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act. This bill confronts the ongoing gaps in our nation’s border enforcement, boosts manpower at the border, invests in enforcement technology, and mandates resumption of border wall construction. The path we are currently on is unsustainable as fentanyl, national security threats, and unprecedented numbers of illegal immigrants exploit border vulnerabilities, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis.

In the Fiscal Responsibility Act, we fought for and delivered the largest deficit reduction in our nation’s history, clawed back unspent COVID funds, and passed a version of my bill to repeal IRS funding for its army of agents set to conduct middle-class audits.

By passing H.R. 5, the Parent’s Bill of Rights Act, House Republicans took a strong stand for parents everywhere by recognizing the primary role parents play in their children’s education and reaffirming their rights to be informed of what students experience at school. A bill I have introduced, the Educational Choice for Children Act would further empower families to make their own educational decisions by increasing access to high-quality education regardless of ZIP code or socioeconomic status.

We still have plenty of work to do to put our country on a path towards prosperity. Securing the border, passing the remaining eight appropriations bills through regular order, bringing much-needed accountability to the Biden administration, and tackling major economic challenges like inflation will require House Republicans to work together as a team. The new Speaker of the House must have a plan to build on our successes, and continue our work to reduce deficits, expand economic opportunity, and protect the freedoms of American families. I look forward to hearing from my colleagues who are seeking the role in the coming days.

Adrian SmithThis week, the House was set to continue its work on the twelve annual appropriations bills to ensure the government is responsibly funded. Unfortunately, our legislative work to cut wasteful spending was disrupted when a small handful of Republicans voted with Democrats to remove the Speaker of the House. I voted against vacating the chair because it sets a disruptive precedent and because the House should be focused on delivering results for the American people. House Republicans already have a record of success in the 118th&nbsp;Congress, and I believe we should be building on that record as a team united, not fighting amongst ourselves. It’s unfortunate we are in this position, but we must come together, elect a new speaker, and get back to doing the People’s business. I thank former Speaker Kevin McCarthy for his service and will continue speaking with my colleagues and Nebraskans as I consider which of my House Republican colleagues would most effectively lead the House as Speaker.Over the last 275 days, our Republican Majority has delivered meaningful wins for all Americans. We started with reopening the House to the American people, ending proxy voting, and forcing the Biden administration to end the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. House Republicans have worked hard to return to normalcy and get our country back on track since retaking the majority. With millions of families and small businesses depending on us, we cannot let off the gas.To push back on the Biden administration’s anti-growth agenda, we passed H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act which, if enacted, would unleash domestic energy production and restore American energy dominance.House Republicans also passed H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act. This bill confronts the ongoing gaps in our nation’s border enforcement, boosts manpower at the border, invests in enforcement technology, and mandates resumption of border wall construction. The path we are currently on is unsustainable as fentanyl, national security threats, and unprecedented numbers of illegal immigrants exploit border vulnerabilities, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis.In the Fiscal Responsibility Act, we fought for and delivered the largest deficit reduction in our nation’s history, clawed back unspent COVID funds, and passed a version of my bill to repeal IRS funding for its army of agents set to conduct middle-class audits.By passing H.R. 5, the Parent’s Bill of Rights Act, House Republicans took a strong stand for parents everywhere by recognizing the primary role parents play in their children’s education and reaffirming their rights to be informed of what students experience at school. A bill I have introduced, the Educational Choice for Children Act would further empower families to make their own educational decisions by increasing access to high-quality education regardless of ZIP code or socioeconomic status.We still have plenty of work to do to put our country on a path towards prosperity. Securing the border, passing the remaining eight appropriations bills through regular order, bringing much-needed accountability to the Biden administration, and tackling major economic challenges like inflation will require House Republicans to work together as a team. The new Speaker of the House must have a plan to build on our successes, and continue our work to reduce deficits, expand economic opportunity, and protect the freedoms of American families. I look forward to hearing from my colleagues who are seeking the role in the coming days.

Next Steps for the House of Representatives

WASHINGTON (AP) — Updated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-coronavirus-234f27c74438fb4812a014dbd98ddbde">COVID-19 vaccines</a>&nbsp;may be getting a little easier for adults to find but they’re still frustratingly scarce for young children. Health officials said Thursday the kid shots have started shipping — and reminded most everyone to get a fall flu shot too.

About 2 million Americans have gotten the new COVID-19 shot in the&nbsp; weeks since its approval despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccine-delays-cdc-moderna-pfizer-ba66d06cbcc31ba4b22d60e93d3d5024">early barriers from insurance companies</a>&nbsp;and other glitches, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

For the first time, the U.S. has vaccines to fight a trio of viruses that cause fall and winter misery. But health officials worry that shot fatigue and hassles in getting them will leave too many people needlessly unprotected.

“We need to use them,” Dr. Mandy Cohen, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said Thursday. “Right now is the right time.”

A flu vaccination and that updated COVID-19 shot are urged for just about everyone, starting with babies as young as 6 months.

Also this year, a vaccine against another scary virus called RSV is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-adults-gsk-pfizer-cdc-virus-592dcd5ae36cdbec8c003511f5fd27f0">recommended for people 60 and older</a>&nbsp;and for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-infants-cdc-e30abab0c84ab22ddddc4963dad7c0ad">certain pregnant women</a>. And for babies,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">a vaccinelike medicine</a>&nbsp;to guard against that respiratory syncytial virus is expected to arrive next month.

“These vaccines may not be perfect in being able to prevent absolutely every infection with these illnesses, but they turn a wild infection into a milder one,” said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

This year’s vaccine is updated to protect against newer versions of the constantly evolving coronavirus. Already there’s been a late summer jump in infections, hospitalizations and deaths. And so far the new vaccine recipe appears to be a good match to the variants currently circulating.

Protection against COVID-19, whether from vaccination or from an earlier infection, wanes over time — and most Americans haven’t had a vaccine dose in about a year. Everyone 5 and older will need just one shot this fall even if they’ve never had a prior vaccination, while younger children may need additional doses depending on their vaccination and infection history.

The rollout's start has been messy. This time the government isn't buying and distributing shots for free. Now drugstores, doctors' offices and other providers had to place their own orders, and sometimes canceled appointments if supplies didn't arrive in time. Some people had to wait for their insurance companies to update the billing codes needed to cover them or risk paying out of pocket.

Manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna have shipped millions of doses, and say there’s plenty of supply — and in recent days, more appointments have started opening, at least for people 12 and older. In a Wednesday meeting, insurance companies told HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra they've largely resolved the paperwork issues blocking some patients' vaccinations.

The shots are supposed to be provided free in-network to the insured. For the uninsured or underinsured, CDC has opened what it's calling a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/bridge/index.html">“bridge”</a>&nbsp;program to provide free shots at certain sites.

WHY CAN’T PARENTS FIND COVID-19 SHOTS FOR YOUNGER KIDS?

Adult doses got shipped first, CDC’s Cohen said. Doses for the under-12 set have begun shipping, and “the supply is filling out,” she said.

Drugstore chain CVS said its doses for ages 5 and older began arriving last week, although supplies vary by location, while its MinuteClinic locations anticipate opening appointments for tots as young as 18 months in the coming days.

As for pediatricians, they’ve had to guess how many doses to buy up-front while waiting to learn how much insurance companies would reimburse them for each shot, said Dr. Jesse Hackell of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He said early parent demand is heartening but that pediatricians expect to spend lots of time this fall explaining to hesitant families how important COVID-19 vaccination is even for healthy children.

In Redmond, Washington, Ania Mitros got herself, her husband and her 13-year-old vaccinated pretty easily but despite calls to multiple pharmacies and clinics can't find anyone to tell her when shots for her 8- and 11-year-old will be available. “There need to be clear expectations,” she said.

Fewer Americans got a flu vaccine last year than before the coronavirus pandemic –- a discouraging gap that CDC hopes to reverse.

People need a flu vaccine every fall because influenza also mutates each year. Like with COVID-19, flu is most dangerous to older adults, the very young and people with weak immune systems, lung, heart or other chronic health problems, or who are pregnant.

There are multiple kinds of flu vaccines, including a nasal spray version for certain younger people. More important, three kinds are specifically recommended for seniors because they do a better job revving up an older adult’s immune system.

CAN I GET A FLU SHOT AND COVID-19 SHOT AT THE SAME TIME?

Yes, although one in each arm might be more comfortable.

RSV is a cold-like nuisance for most people, and not as well-known as the flu. But RSV packs hospitals every winter and kills several hundred tots and thousands of seniors. The CDC says already, RSV cases are rising in the Southeast.

RSV vaccines from GSK and Pfizer are approved for adults 60 and older.

Drugstores have adequate supplies but some seniors are reporting hurdles such as requirements to get a prescription. That’s because the CDC recommended that seniors talk with their doctors about the new vaccine. Cohen said it was meant just for education about a virus that people may not know much about.

“We want folks to ... get access to the vaccine as quickly as possible,” she said.

The FDA also has approved Pfizer’s RSV vaccine to be given late in pregnancy so moms-to-be pass virus-fighting antibodies to their fetuses, offering some protection at birth. The CDC is recommending that pregnancy vaccinations be offered between September and January, when RSV tends to be most common.

There's no vaccine for children but babies whose mothers didn't get vaccinated in pregnancy may get&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">an injection of lab-made antibodies</a>&nbsp;to guard against RSV. Called Beyfortus, the one-dose shot from Sanofi and AstraZeneca is different than a vaccine, which teaches the body to make its own infection-fighting antibodies, but is similarly protective. Cohen said it should be available in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672157207598.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Updated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-coronavirus-234f27c74438fb4812a014dbd98ddbde">COVID-19 vaccines</a>&nbsp;may be getting a little easier for adults to find but they’re still frustratingly scarce for young children. Health officials said Thursday the kid shots have started shipping — and reminded most everyone to get a fall flu shot too.About 2 million Americans have gotten the new COVID-19 shot in the&nbsp; weeks since its approval despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccine-delays-cdc-moderna-pfizer-ba66d06cbcc31ba4b22d60e93d3d5024">early barriers from insurance companies</a>&nbsp;and other glitches, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.For the first time, the U.S. has vaccines to fight a trio of viruses that cause fall and winter misery. But health officials worry that shot fatigue and hassles in getting them will leave too many people needlessly unprotected.“We need to use them,” Dr. Mandy Cohen, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said Thursday. “Right now is the right time.”A flu vaccination and that updated COVID-19 shot are urged for just about everyone, starting with babies as young as 6 months.Also this year, a vaccine against another scary virus called RSV is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-adults-gsk-pfizer-cdc-virus-592dcd5ae36cdbec8c003511f5fd27f0">recommended for people 60 and older</a>&nbsp;and for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-infants-cdc-e30abab0c84ab22ddddc4963dad7c0ad">certain pregnant women</a>. And for babies,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">a vaccinelike medicine</a>&nbsp;to guard against that respiratory syncytial virus is expected to arrive next month.“These vaccines may not be perfect in being able to prevent absolutely every infection with these illnesses, but they turn a wild infection into a milder one,” said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.Some things to know:WHY DO I NEED ANOTHER COVID-19 SHOT?This year’s vaccine is updated to protect against newer versions of the constantly evolving coronavirus. Already there’s been a late summer jump in infections, hospitalizations and deaths. And so far the new vaccine recipe appears to be a good match to the variants currently circulating.Protection against COVID-19, whether from vaccination or from an earlier infection, wanes over time — and most Americans haven’t had a vaccine dose in about a year. Everyone 5 and older will need just one shot this fall even if they’ve never had a prior vaccination, while younger children may need additional doses depending on their vaccination and infection history.HOW HARD IS IT TO FIND COVID-19 SHOTS?The rollout's start has been messy. This time the government isn't buying and distributing shots for free. Now drugstores, doctors' offices and other providers had to place their own orders, and sometimes canceled appointments if supplies didn't arrive in time. Some people had to wait for their insurance companies to update the billing codes needed to cover them or risk paying out of pocket.Manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna have shipped millions of doses, and say there’s plenty of supply — and in recent days, more appointments have started opening, at least for people 12 and older. In a Wednesday meeting, insurance companies told HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra they've largely resolved the paperwork issues blocking some patients' vaccinations.The shots are supposed to be provided free in-network to the insured. For the uninsured or underinsured, CDC has opened what it's calling a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/bridge/index.html">“bridge”</a>&nbsp;program to provide free shots at certain sites.WHY CAN’T PARENTS FIND COVID-19 SHOTS FOR YOUNGER KIDS?Adult doses got shipped first, CDC’s Cohen said. Doses for the under-12 set have begun shipping, and “the supply is filling out,” she said.Drugstore chain CVS said its doses for ages 5 and older began arriving last week, although supplies vary by location, while its MinuteClinic locations anticipate opening appointments for tots as young as 18 months in the coming days.As for pediatricians, they’ve had to guess how many doses to buy up-front while waiting to learn how much insurance companies would reimburse them for each shot, said Dr. Jesse Hackell of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He said early parent demand is heartening but that pediatricians expect to spend lots of time this fall explaining to hesitant families how important COVID-19 vaccination is even for healthy children.In Redmond, Washington, Ania Mitros got herself, her husband and her 13-year-old vaccinated pretty easily but despite calls to multiple pharmacies and clinics can't find anyone to tell her when shots for her 8- and 11-year-old will be available. “There need to be clear expectations,” she said.WHAT ABOUT FLU VACCINE?Fewer Americans got a flu vaccine last year than before the coronavirus pandemic –- a discouraging gap that CDC hopes to reverse.People need a flu vaccine every fall because influenza also mutates each year. Like with COVID-19, flu is most dangerous to older adults, the very young and people with weak immune systems, lung, heart or other chronic health problems, or who are pregnant.There are multiple kinds of flu vaccines, including a nasal spray version for certain younger people. More important, three kinds are specifically recommended for seniors because they do a better job revving up an older adult’s immune system.CAN I GET A FLU SHOT AND COVID-19 SHOT AT THE SAME TIME?Yes, although one in each arm might be more comfortable.WHO NEEDS THE NEW RSV VACCINE?RSV is a cold-like nuisance for most people, and not as well-known as the flu. But RSV packs hospitals every winter and kills several hundred tots and thousands of seniors. The CDC says already, RSV cases are rising in the Southeast.RSV vaccines from GSK and Pfizer are approved for adults 60 and older.Drugstores have adequate supplies but some seniors are reporting hurdles such as requirements to get a prescription. That’s because the CDC recommended that seniors talk with their doctors about the new vaccine. Cohen said it was meant just for education about a virus that people may not know much about.“We want folks to ... get access to the vaccine as quickly as possible,” she said.WHAT ABOUT BABIES AND RSV?The FDA also has approved Pfizer’s RSV vaccine to be given late in pregnancy so moms-to-be pass virus-fighting antibodies to their fetuses, offering some protection at birth. The CDC is recommending that pregnancy vaccinations be offered between September and January, when RSV tends to be most common.There's no vaccine for children but babies whose mothers didn't get vaccinated in pregnancy may get&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">an injection of lab-made antibodies</a>&nbsp;to guard against RSV. Called Beyfortus, the one-dose shot from Sanofi and AstraZeneca is different than a vaccine, which teaches the body to make its own infection-fighting antibodies, but is similarly protective. Cohen said it should be available in October.___

What to know as fall vaccinations against COVID, flu and RSV underway

The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding the structure fire and death of an adult at a rural Amherst NE residence.&nbsp; At approximately 3:57 PM on Thursday October 5, 2023 firefighters and law enforcement were called to 13015 Amherst Rd Amherst NE in response to a fire call.&nbsp;

The Amherst Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue and EMS responded to the scene of a trailer home fire.&nbsp; While on scene the body of an adult was found dead inside the trailer home.&nbsp; The investigation into the cause of fire and death of the individual is ongoing.&nbsp; The trailer home was fully engulfed and total loss.&nbsp; Preliminary investigation indication of the death is foul play is not suspected.&nbsp; The identity of the victim has not been confirmed and investigation continues.&nbsp; The Buffalo County Attorney’s Office has ordered an autopsy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding the structure fire and death of an adult at a rural Amherst NE residence.&nbsp; At approximately 3:57 PM on Thursday October 5, 2023 firefighters and law enforcement were called to 13015 Amherst Rd Amherst NE in response to a fire call.&nbsp;The Amherst Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue and EMS responded to the scene of a trailer home fire.&nbsp; While on scene the body of an adult was found dead inside the trailer home.&nbsp; The investigation into the cause of fire and death of the individual is ongoing.&nbsp; The trailer home was fully engulfed and total loss.&nbsp; Preliminary investigation indication of the death is foul play is not suspected.&nbsp; The identity of the victim has not been confirmed and investigation continues.&nbsp; The Buffalo County Attorney’s Office has ordered an autopsy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;